Fardis Maleki Jahan, Seyed Hadi Razavi, Mehran Nouri, Melika Shafiepour, Mohammad Afraei
Adaptogens are natural plant- and fungi-derived substances that help the body adapt to stress, maintain homeostasis, and enhance resilience. Long utilized in traditional systems such as Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and Russian herbalism, adaptogens have gained scientific attention for their broad therapeutic potential. This review highlights the pharmacological properties and health benefits of key adaptogenic herbs, including Rhodiola rosea ( R. rosea ), Withania somnifera ( W. somnifera ), Panax ginseng ( P. ginseng ), Schisandra chinensis ( S. chinensis ), and others. These botanicals exhibit diverse bioactivities—neuroprotective, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-fatigue—mediated through mechanisms such as hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis regulation, oxidative stress modulation. Together, these actions contribute to enhanced cognitive function, physical endurance, restful sleep, emotional stability, and metabolic support. In modern contexts, adaptogens are increasingly incorporated into functional foods and beverages, such as teas, supplements, fortified snacks, and adaptogenic coffees, making them accessible tools for supporting a wellness-focused lifestyle. Emerging research also highlights their potential roles in anti-aging and disease prevention. As holistic and preventive health approaches gain global traction, adaptogens represent a valuable natural strategy for promoting vitality, balance, and long-term well-being. This review offers a comprehensive synthesis of current knowledge on adaptogens and their relevance in enhancing modern lifestyles. • Adaptogens restore homeostasis and improve human stress resistance. • Adaptogens enhance cognition, endurance, sleep quality, and emotional balance. • Adaptogens activate antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective pathways. • Adaptogens serve as natural ingredients in functional foods. • Regulatory and standardization barriers limit global adaptogen commercialization.